The first place that might come to your mind when someone says, Netherlands, is Amsterdam. Although, the country is a wonderland with a lot more to offer than just the city life. From cool outdoor and hippie cafes to colourful streets, one can never miss out on capturing their best moments for the feed. The canals, open-air museums, absolutely divine landscapes, you name it, the Netherlands have it.
So let’s dig a little deeper and discover the ten best experiences that the Netherlands offers you!
1. The Canals of Amsterdam
The canal system in Amsterdam has existed since the Golden Dutch Age. The main canals were built back in the seventeenth century and are listed as the UNESCO World Heritage Site. Many tourists also called the city “Venice of the North” because of these magnificent canals. Surrounded by vibrant narrow houses, It is a reflection of sentiments you wouldn’t want to miss.
The canal boat tours are sure mesmerising, but one also has the option to rent boats here for a personalised experience. The Prinsengracht, Keizersgracht, Herengracht, and Jordaan are the main canals, alongside them are over a thousand monumental buildings. If something is unexpected, then you will likely find it in Amsterdam. It is not every day that we find a medieval centre like this. The dual nature of this area brings you history and hedonism at the same time.
2. Anne Frank House
Situated next to the Prinsengracht, Anne Frank house is a biographical museum dedicated to diarist Anne Frank. She was a wartime writer who hid at the rear of the canal during World War II. Even though she did not survive the war, her journal was published later in 1947.
The diary of Anne Frank brought her house into the limelight. Initially, after the publication, several visitors came to see around the secret rooms. Later the demolition of the building was announced as soon as it was sold. Gratefully the campaigners saved the day as well the building.
The Anne Frank House tour is definitely the one you should take. With the new VR tour of the Secret Annex, it only gets better.
3. The Windmills Of Kinderdijk
This countryside is on a water-log between two rivers. The village of Kinderdijk is 20kms from Rotterdam. There is a ferry that runs between the two areas, besides taking the water bus is the quickest way to travel.
The windmill system is under the UNESCO World Heritage Site. It is a beautiful place to go for a walk or cycling around the day, especially during the tulip season. Furthermore, there are two museums within the mill dedicated to the history of milling.
4. Rotterdam
Netherland’s largest City after Amsterdam; It is the perfect spot for you if you are into architecture. The City is known for its quirky and contemporary architecture. One of the most famous of these is the yellow cube houses. They seem like some Bob the Builder fantasy but, people live in them. These houses are efficient and sophisticated on the inside.
You are in luck if you are a foodie; this place is full of spectacular restaurants and bars. Rotterdam is always a surprise. Walk across the beautiful Erasmus Bridge and, there is Kunsthal, a striking glass and steel building that hosts several art exhibitions. Take the water taxi across the city to discover all of it at once.
5. Haarlem
It is a charming city, full of history, breathtaking architecture and buildings, and of course the tulip fields. The best way to discover this city is to go on a stroll alongside canals and hidden hofjes, which are very much like the medieval age courtyards. The cobblestone streets are aligned with several adorable gingerbread houses.
Some marvelous landmarks to visit here are Windmill De Adriaan on the bank of the River Spaarne, the old city gate, Saint Bavo Church, and the Byzantine-style Saint Bavo Cathedral. Brewing had been a part of the city for so long and if you’re into craft beer you should definitely stop by Jopenkerk.
6. Marken Lighthouse
The Het Paard Van Marken, also known as the Marken Lighthouse, is one of the most significant places to visit. The beautiful architecture and scenery will surely take you back in time. It is situated on the triangle-shaped land in the Markermeer Lake called Marken. It is a small island that one can explore within a few hours.
Moreover, the village of Marken is known for its wooden houses. The lighthouse is 30 minutes walk away from the old village. It is best to visit the lighthouse around the time of sunset, to witness this beautiful landscape at its best.
7. Muiden Castle
The tiny fortified city of Muidens’ initial purpose was to guard the mouth of the River Vecht. Today, the Muiderslot Castle is one of the most popular attractions of the Netherlands. It was built in the 13th century, with the classic design following thick high stone walls and towers at each corner.
The castle now is converted into a national museum. It is a splendid display of history and life in the Muiden Castle through the different eras. Muiderslot is a must-visit place on the list and is a great royal escape.
8. Utrecht
Utrecht is known for being the liveliest city in the Netherlands. With the canal system around the city spread beautifully it may appear a lot like Amsterdam. But the tourist crowd is comparatively a lot less here.
The Dom Tower is a significant attraction here, and one can see it from anywhere in the city. The wharf cellar canals, rooftops, and cafes are iconic to the city. Weekends are always happening here, and is the best time to visit the lovely city of Utrecht.
9. Dutch Open Air Museum
The historical city of Arnhem is Situated on the border of Germany. The town is filled with its rich history of World War II and, Fashion and Lifestyle. One such place to witness it is the Dutch Open Air Museum.
The city had a crucial role to play in World War II. Meanwhile, the Dutch Fashion Academy is situated here. It is a spectacular destination for shopping, with several boutique stores available. The heritage tram takes you places such as the windmill and the park which offers a brilliant brewery.
10. Amersfoort
Amersfoort is a little yet delightful city located right at the heart of the country. It is known to be the most well-preserved medieval city across the nation. Along with the canals, the city also has a moat spread across the old city centre.
Besides history and beautiful wall houses, the city is also well known for its lively market, coffee, and craft beer. It is voted as the best city to live in, in the Netherlands. Don’t miss this hidden gem on your trip to the country.